Study Notes: Grade 9 Creative Arts Dance improvisation,
dance theory and literacy
Study Notes: Dance Improvisation, Dance Theory, and Literacy
Topic Overview
Main Concept/Theme: This topic explores dance improvisation as a form of expression and
creativity, the theoretical concepts behind dance, and the importance of literacy in
understanding and communicating ideas in dance.
Key Learning Objectives:
Understand the fundamentals of dance improvisation.
Explore key principles and elements of dance theory.
Recognize the role of literacy in dance, including terminologies and critical appreciation.
Key Terms and Definitions
1. Improvisation: The spontaneous creation of movement without pre-planning.
2. Choreography: The art of designing and arranging dance movements to create a dance
composition.
3. Dance Theory: The study of the principles and concepts that govern movement and
composition in dance.
4. Labanotation: A system for recording and analyzing dance movements.
5. Rhythm: The pattern and flow of movements and beats in dance.
6. Tempo: The speed at which a piece of dance music is played.
Main Content Sections
1. Dance Improvisation
Definition and Importance: Improvisation allows dancers to express emotions and creativity
freely, resulting in unique performances.
Techniques and Exercises:
Warm-Up Exercises: Stretching, body isolations, and rhythmic breathing.
Structured Improvisation: Setting bounds such as focusing on specific movements (e.g.,
jumps, turns).
Using Props: Exploring movement with objects such as scarves or chairs to inspire creativity.
2. Dance Theory
Elements of Dance: Understanding the basic elements that make up dance.
Body: The dancer’s physical structure and how it moves.
Action: The movements performed, including locomotor (e.g., walking, running) and non-
locomotor (e.g., stretching, bending).
Space: The area in which the dance occurs, including levels (high, medium, low), pathways,
and patterns.
Time: The duration, tempo, and rhythm of the movements.
Energy: The quality of movement, such as sharp, smooth, strong, or delicate.
3. Dance Literacy
Understanding Dance Terminology: Knowing the lingo and jargon used in the world of
dance helps in discussions and analysis.
Examples: Terms like “fouetté,” “plie,” “arabesque,” and “sous-sus.”
Critical Appreciation: Learning how to analyze and critique performances; understanding
the intent, technique, and emotional impact of dance pieces.
Example
Improvisation Exercise: While listening to a specific piece of music, improvise for 5 minutes
focusing on spontaneous movements that reflect the music’s mood.
Choreograph a Short Dance: Create a 1-minute dance piece that incorporates at least three
different elements of dance: action, space, and energy.
Summary
In this section, we learned about dance improvisation as a means to express creativity, explored
fundamental dance theory elements such as body, action, space, time, and energy, and recognized
the importance of dance literacy in understanding the art form.
Self-Assessment Questions
1. Multiple Choice: What element of dance refers to the way a movement is executed?
2. A) Space
3. B) Energy
4. C) Time
5. D) Body
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Answer: B) Energy
1. Open-Ended: Discuss how improvisation can enhance your creativity as a dancer. Provide
an example from a personal experience if possible.
2. Multiple Choice: What does Labanotation help dancers with?
3. A) Choreography
4. B) Recording movements
5. C) Improvisation
6. D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Connections to Other Topics/Subjects
Arts and Culture: Understanding the cultural significance of different dance forms around the
world.
Physical Education: Engaging in physical movement, improving fitness, and learning about
body health in relation to dance.
Music Education: Connection between rhythm in music and movement in dance; how
different musical styles influence dance improvisation and choreography.
Feedback Mechanism
Take the time to reflect on what you’ve learned. Practice your improvisation skills on your own and
discuss these concepts with peers or teachers for deeper understanding. If you have questions or
need clarification, don’t hesitate to seek help or resources.
These notes provide a comprehensive understanding of dance improvisation, theory, and literacy
designed for Grade 9 learners. Engage with the content actively by practicing improvisations and
discussions in the dance context.
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